Getting into real estate is a lot like transferring to a new high school. You know you're supposed to go to class and do good on tests and all of that good stuff, but you're not 100% sure how you should get there. In my short time in this business, I would say there is no "right" or "wrong" way for you to come about this. It is going to take a lot of time, since you must complete five classes and then pass two exams. Now, honestly the classes were a breeze, I finished those in a mere one day a piece. The examinations however, were a different story. I studied my butt off for those, going through my review materials over and over, taking every practice test and quiz I could get my hands on. I will tell you now. The state and national exams are somewhat difficult. I passed both on my first try, but they were much more challenging then the classes, so don't be fooled after taking the classes thinking the exams will be a joke. Just for record I took the classes online.
Another thing you're gonna want to keep in the back of your mind is up front cost. Now, let me say this again. UP FRONT COST. You're looking at roughly $700 for your classes. $105 to register with TREC $61 to take the licensing exams. $45 to get fingerprinted once you pass the exams and then about $1,000 annually to be registered with the MLS and the CSS (you pay most of that up front). Also, remember most agencies have you listed as an independent contractor, so you will be paying your own gas, insurance, etc. You are also going to probably want to make sure your car stays clean, your shirts stay nice and crisp from the cleaners, and you'll want to invest in a GPS for your car. Unless you are extremely familiar with the area you would be working this is an ESSENTIAL. Anyway, I say all that to say, up front I probably forked over roughly $2,200 to get rolling on my real estate career. Some agencies will also require you to have coaching which for me is $150/month, but working with Winans GMAC they take care of me and reimburse me for those classes.
So, know what you are getting yourself into. Real estate is not something you are going to want to just have a hobby of. It's expensive, time consuming, and people are trusting you with the biggest investment they will probably ever make. So, don't take this profession lightly and decide carefully if it is right for you and if you have the desire and means to get into it up front. In short, don't go into it without a desire in your heart to do it right. Don't hastily jump into it and $2,000-$3,000 later decide it's not for you. Make sure it's something you're ready for and if it is then you will succeed and you will enjoy it.
